Focus on Central Oahu

Wahiawa resident Peter William Kawaimaka Lonoaea, a longtime performer at Polynesian Cultural Center and a Church College of Hawaii graduate, received the 2014 Kau I Ka Wekiu Award for his outstanding contributions to Hawaiian culture, art, music and dance. The award was presented Jan. 18 during the annual Moanikeala Hula Festival, named after Lonoaea's mentor Aunty Sally Moanikeala Wood Naluai. He also has shared his culture with children at Lanikai Elementary and many other Hawaii schools. Here Lonoaea performs a special dance for the festival crowds. Photo courtesy Polynesian Cultural Center.